Gov. Dayton, Mayor Rybak Call for End to Orchestra Lockout

Governor Mark Dayton and Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak made a public push to end the lockout of the Minnesota Orchestra on Thursday.

Both leaders are demanding the musicians and management hold face-to-face talks with a mediator. Right now, each side is talking to the mediator but not each other.

A representative for the musicians said there are serious questions still to be dealt with, and they are far apart from a deal.

The orchestra says it’s optimistic about its third contract proposal offered last weekend.

Minnesota Orchestra statement:

"We are very appreciative of Governor Dayton’s and Mayor Rybak’s encouragement for both sides to meet at the bargaining table. We agree that it is only through immediate and intense negotiations that we will reach settlement, and the board negotiating committee is ready to meet. We have been cautiously optimistic this week, hoping that the third proposal we issued over the weekend may help provide incentive for the musicians to meet and reach a settlement. We remain ready to do so if they will join us in bargaining."